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HomeNews Company News What Is Acrylic Sheet

What Is Acrylic Sheet

2025-11-03

Acrylic sheet, also known as PMMA or Polymethyl Methacrylate, is a transparent thermoplastic widely used as a lightweight and shatter-resistant alternative to glass. Its crystal-clear appearance, excellent weather resistance, and easy processing make it one of the most popular plastic materials across lighting, architecture, signage, and furniture industries.

At KUNXIN Plastics, we specialize in producing high-quality acrylic sheets and Optical Plastics designed to deliver clarity, strength, and versatility for professional applications.


1. What Is Acrylic Sheet Made Of?

Acrylic sheets are made from methyl methacrylate monomers (MMA), polymerized through a casting or extrusion process. The result is a rigid, transparent plastic panel with high light transmission—up to 93%, comparable to the finest optical glass.

TypeProduction MethodCharacteristics
Cast Acrylic SheetPolymerized between two glass platesExcellent surface hardness, ideal for machining and polishing
Extruded Acrylic SheetExtruded continuously from melted resinUniform thickness, suitable for mass production and thermoforming

Both types offer exceptional optical clarity, but cast acrylic is preferred for high-precision or decorative applications, while extruded acrylic is used for cost-efficient large-volume projects.


2. Main Characteristics of Acrylic Sheets

Acrylic sheets combine mechanical strength, visual appeal, and durability. Below are their key performance features that make them essential for modern industry:

• High Light Transmission

Acrylic can transmit up to 92–93% of visible light, maintaining brightness and clarity even after years of use. It is widely applied in lighting diffusers and signage panels.

• Lightweight yet Strong

Acrylic weighs about half as much as glass but is ten times more impact-resistant, making it easier to transport and install without breakage risk.

• Excellent Weather and UV Resistance

Unlike many plastics, acrylic retains transparency under sunlight exposure. It resists UV degradation and yellowing, making it ideal for outdoor architectural glazing and lightboxes.

• Easy Fabrication

It can be cut, drilled, laser-engraved, heat-bent, and polished, allowing designers and manufacturers to produce custom shapes and structures.
At KUNXIN Plastics, our CNC and laser processing lines enable precise customization for OEM and ODM projects.

• Versatile Finishes and Colors

Acrylic sheets are available in clear, frosted, colored, mirrored, and textured forms. Decorative variants such as reeded or stripe acrylic are perfect for interior design, signage, and exhibition displays.

• Safe and Non-Toxic

Acrylic is non-toxic, odorless, and emits minimal volatile compounds, ensuring safe use in public spaces, homes, and medical facilities.


3. Common Types of Acrylic Sheets

Acrylic sheets come in many functional categories depending on surface treatment, transparency, and use case:

TypeDescriptionTypical Application
Clear Acrylic SheetTransparent like glass, highest light transmissionDisplay cases, protective barriers
Frosted / Satin Ice Acrylic SheetDiffused light effect with smooth matte surfaceLighting panels, decorative partitions
Mirrored Acrylic SheetReflective on one side for stylish designRetail displays, signage, furniture
Textured Acrylic SheetPatterned or embossed for privacy and aestheticsOffice partitions, wall cladding
Colored Acrylic SheetPigmented with vivid color optionsSignboards, art installations, brand displays
Reeded / Stripe Acrylic SheetVertical grooves or lines create light diffusionInterior design, windows, dividers

At KUNXIN Plastics, we provide all these variants with customizable thicknesses (1–20 mm), sizes, and light transmittance levels to meet global buyers’ project requirements.


4. Applications of Acrylic Sheet

Acrylic’s adaptability makes it suitable for a wide range of industries. Below are some of the most common uses:

• Lighting Industry

Used in LED diffuser panels, lamp covers, and Light Guide Plates, acrylic ensures soft, uniform illumination and enhances energy efficiency.

• Architecture and Interior Design

Acrylic panels are integrated into skylights, decorative walls, partitions, and signage systems. Their combination of durability and aesthetic transparency allows designers to shape creative spaces.

• Advertising and Signage

The smooth surface and brilliant color rendering of acrylic make it the top material for lightboxes, shop signs, and illuminated logos.

• Furniture and Retail Display

From modern tabletops to exhibition shelves, acrylic offers a luxurious glass-like look while remaining safe and easy to clean.

• Automotive and Transportation

Acrylic sheets are used in instrument panels, lamp covers, and interior trim, where optical clarity and impact resistance are essential.

• Sanitary and Medical Equipment

Due to its hygiene and resistance to moisture, acrylic is applied in bathroom fixtures, protective shields, and medical device housings.


5. Advantages of Choosing KUNXIN Plastics

As a professional acrylic sheet manufacturer and supplier in China, KUNXIN Plastics provides international clients with material reliability and service excellence:

  • Premium Raw Materials: 100% virgin PMMA ensures clarity and stability.

  • Advanced Fabrication Lines: CNC cutting, laser engraving, heat bending, and polishing available in-house.

  • Custom Finishing: Options for texture, color, gloss, and transmittance according to client drawings.

  • Strict Quality Control: Each sheet undergoes optical inspection, thickness testing, and visual evaluation.

  • Global Supply Capability: We serve OEM/ODM projects with efficient lead times and stable logistics from Guangdong.

Our expertise covers both optical plastic solutions and decorative acrylic designs, supporting lighting brands, interior designers, and display manufacturers worldwide.


6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Is acrylic sheet the same as plexiglass?
Yes. Plexiglass is a trade name for acrylic (PMMA). Both refer to the same material.

Q2: Can acrylic sheets be used outdoors?
Absolutely. They resist UV radiation and weathering, maintaining transparency for many years.

Q3: What thickness should I choose?
It depends on application. For lighting diffusers, 1.5–3 mm is common; for structural panels, 5–10 mm or more is recommended.

Q4: How do you clean acrylic sheets?
Use mild soap water and a soft microfiber cloth. Avoid solvents or abrasive pads that may scratch the surface.

Q5: Do you offer custom cutting and shapes?
Yes. At KUNXIN Plastics, we provide precision cutting, engraving, and thermoforming based on your drawings.


7. Conclusion

Acrylic sheet is one of the most adaptable materials in modern manufacturing—combining clarity, durability, and design freedom. Whether used in lighting, signage, or architectural decoration, it delivers performance and visual excellence unmatched by glass or other plastics.

At KUNXIN Plastics, we help global clients achieve innovative and efficient results through high-quality acrylic and optical plastic materials.
Explore our full range of acrylic sheets at www.kunxinplastics.com and contact our team for OEM/ODM collaboration.

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